Gatchalian admires DFA display of commitment to save distressed OFWs

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian. (Photo from the Senate Facebook account)

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian underscored on Saturday the efforts done by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano saying there’s no reason for him to resign from his post following the controversial rescue of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Kuwait.

Gatchalian said that the action of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) caught on tape proved its “unrelenting commitment” to save the distressed OFWs in the Gulf state.

“While I agree that the video of the rescue mission should not have been posted, I respect and admire what the actions caught on tape represent: the DFA’s unrelenting commitment to save OFWs in distress at all costs,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

“This is the kind of courageous and compassionate leadership we need to safeguard the rights and promote the well-being of the two million OFWs deployed across the world,” he added.

Gatchalian also said that he is confident that Cayetano would resolve the issue between the Philippines and Kuwait.

Several lawmakers and some groups earlier called on Cayetano to resign following the diplomatic row between Manila and Kuwait over the recent rescue of distressed OFWs.

Malacañang, likewise, said that there is no reason for Cayetano to step down.

“That call is addressed to Secretary Cayetano. He should address it. As far as the Palace is concerned, there is no reason for him to resign,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said.

READ: No reason for Cayetano to resign — Palace

The rescue of Filipino workers had angered Kuwait, which resulted in the expulsion of Philippine Ambassador Renato Villa from Kuwait.

Villa returned to the country on Wednesday, May 2. /jpv

READ: Expelled PH ambassador to Kuwait arrives in Manila